Greve

Greve is a surname of English origin, deriving from the Old English word "graef," meaning a ditch or trench. The surname is believed to have originally been used to describe someone who lived near a trench or ditch.

Historical Origins

The Greve surname can be traced back to medieval England, where it was used to identify families or individuals residing in a particular geographical location. Over time, the surname may have evolved to represent different branches of the same family or distinct lineages.

Notable Bearers

  • John Greve: A prominent figure in British history known for his contributions to the field of agriculture.
  • Emma Greve: Notable philanthropist who founded several charitable organisations in the UK during the 19th century.

Distribution

Historical records indicate that the Greve surname has been most commonly found in regions across southern England, particularly in counties such as Sussex and Kent. However, variations of the surname can also be found in other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond.

Modern Significance

Today, the Greve surname continues to exist in various parts of the world, with descendants of the original bearers spreading across different countries. The surname may have different spellings or variants due to changes in language and regional influences over the centuries.

In conclusion, the Greve surname holds an important place in British history and genealogy, representing a lineage that has contributed to the cultural tapestry of the nation.

There are approximately 94 people named Greve in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Greve.

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.